It looks as though Squamish commuters are going to have to wait a while longer for public transit to Vancouver, Whistler or Pemberton.
Sea to Sky regional transit has run into a stumbling block.
Once again, it appears as if the payment scheme is the object of contention between several local governments and the province.
The District said in its statement that the province has turned down a funding idea proposed by a committee of local governments, comprised of the District of Squamish, the Líl'wat Nation, the Resort Municipality of Whistler, the Squamish Nation, the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District and the Village of Pemberton.
Those groups suggested paying the tab by using a funding model based on the current provincial-municipal cost-sharing formula for local transit, ridership fares and property tax, the District says.
In addition, it would've added a 2.5-cent motor fuel tax.
The province said it would not entertain that idea.
"The local partners have expressed interest in a regional motor fuel tax to fund their contribution to the service. While the BC Utilities Commission is conducting its inquiry into gasoline and diesel prices, our government will not be considering any new motor fuel taxes," reads a statement from the Ministry of Transportation sent to The Chief.
"The ministry is committed to continue working with the local partners to find a way to make this proposed service a reality, and meetings will take place over the summer to discuss potential options."
The province's rebuff has triggered renewed calls from local government to come up with a funding solution, which was outlined in the District's statement.
"Municipalities, by legislation, have limited means of raising funds," said Mayor Karen Elliott in the release.
"We need help from the province to identify additional funds beyond what we are able to contribute to fund transit service across a large rural area. The province has many more tools available, and we believe there is a way to create opportunities for regional transit services in more communities across British Columbia by working together."
"Travel between Squamish and North Vancouver villages are also important linkages that don't currently exist," said Squamish Nation Coun. Deanna Lewis (Káḵalilh), also in the release.
"When we talk about the Highway of Tears and our Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, how can we work towards prevention?"
"We have worked in good faith with the province, and will continue to do so," said Tony Rainbow, chair of the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District. "We are disappointed that we don't yet have an agreed-to approach, as this has a profoundly negative impact on the citizens in the corridor, but will keep pushing for a viable solution that can be supported by Victoria."
In an interview with The Chief, MLA Jordan Sturdy said the governance model has also been a sticking point in the negotiations for regional transit.
He said the province still hasn't appointed an official Regional Transportation Commission.
"Almost nine months later, and has the provincial government appointed the commission through an order in council? No, they have not," said Sturdy.
"I do not understand what happened there."
Adding to the complication is that under current provincial legislation, First Nations aren't able to be part of such a commission.
Sturdy said that he's spoken with Transportation Minister Claire Trevena regarding regional transit.
"I'd love to get some sense on the minister, I have asked her on multiple occasions," he said. "She's been clear or indicated that [the province] is supportive of regional transit. But we don't see any action on it. And actions do speak louder than words. I would very much like to see the provincial appoint the commission, and let's move on here."
